Wildlife Species of Special Concern in New Jersey

The term "Species of Special Concern" applies to species that warrant special attention because of some evidence of decline, inherent vulnerability to environmental deterioration, or habitat modification that would result in their becoming a Threatened species. This category would also be applied to species that meet the foregoing criteria and for which there is little understanding of their current population status in the state.

Endangered: Applies to a species whose prospects for survival within the state are in immediate danger due to one or several factors, such as loss or degradation of habitat, over-exploitation, predation, competition, disease or environmental pollution, etc. An endangered species likely requires immediate action to avoid extinction within NJ.

Threatened: Applies to species that may become Endangered if conditions surrounding it begin to or continue to deteriorate. Thus, a Threatened species is one that is already vulnerable as a result of, for example, small population size, restricted range, narrow habitat affinities, significant population decline, etc.

Stable (or increasing): Applies to species that appear to be secure in NJ and not in danger of falling into any of the preceding the categories in the near future.

Undetermined: A species about which there is not enough information available to determine the status.